Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B and C cause chronic ongoing illness.
Hepatitis B & C are the nastiest of the Hepatitis infections and there is currently no treatment for the B strain of the virus. Suffers need rest, fluids and a healthy diet. Suffers should avoid alcohol and certain prescribed drugs
Hepatitis Can be diagnosed with a blood test by your GP
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver. This can be caused by alcohol and some drugs, but usually it is the result of a viral infection. There are many types of virus which can cause hepatitis. Each of these viruses acts differently.How it's spread
The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is very common worldwide. It is very infectious.
The virus can be spread in the following ways:
- by unprotected (without a condom) penetrative sex (when the penis enters the anus, vagina or mouth) with someone who is infected. Also by sex which draws blood with someone who is infected
- by sharing contaminated needles or other drug-injecting equipment
- by using non-sterilized equipment for tattooing, acupuncture or body piercing
- from an infected mother to her baby, mainly during delivery. Immunization of the baby at birth prevents the transmission of Hepatitis B
- through a blood transfusion in a country where blood is not tested for the Hepatitis B virus.
Signs and symptoms
People may have no symptoms at all, but they can still pass on the virus to others. Symptoms may include:
- a short, mild, flu-like illness
- nausea and vomiting
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- jaundice (yellow skin and whites of eyes, darker yellow urine and pale faeces)
- itchy skin.
Some people may need to be admitted to hospital.
Most adults infected with the Hepatitis B virus fully recover and develop life-long immunity. Between 2% and 10% of individuals infected as adults will become chronic carriers, which means they will be infectious to others and can develop chronic liver damage. Infected children, especially new-born babies, are much more likely to become chronic carriers.
If a person continues to be infected over a number of years with the Hepatitis B virus, they could develop the following complications:
- chronic hepatitis
- liver cirrhosis
- liver cancer.
Diagnosis and treatment
Many people do not require treatment, as the inflammation of the liver may not be severe. If you need treatment for liver inflammation, you will be referred to a specialist centre for a full assessment.
Immunization
Three injections are given over a period of 3-6 months. A blood test is taken once the course of injections is completed to check that they have worked. Immunity should last for at least 5 years.
The injections are available from your GP.
Follow-up
If you are diagnosed as having an active infection with Hepatitis B, you will be advised to have regular blood tests and physical check-ups. All carriers should expect to be referred to specialist services.
If you are infected with Hepatitis B, you should limit the amount of alcohol you drink. The doctor may also advise you to avoid fatty foods and follow a low-salt diet.
If you have Hepatitis B, you should use a condom for penetrative sex to prevent passing on the virus.
Your partner should also be immunized against Hepatitis B (if not already infected).
Your doctor will advise you about any precautions necessary to ensure that you avoid infecting others with the virus, such as not sharing toothbrushes or shaving equipment.
Remember, using condoms can reduce your risk of getting or passing on sexually transmitted infections.